Boat capsizing off Morocco coast leaves 3 migrants dead

Teams rescue 45 others attempting to reach Canary Islands, Western Sahara region, say authorities

Three individuals lost their lives Saturday when a rubber boat carrying migrants, attempting to reach the Canary Islands and the Western Sahara region, capsized, the administration of Tarfaya, a coastal city, confirmed the unfortunate event in a recent statement.

The migrants, attempting to reach the Canary Islands – administered by Spain – and the Western Sahara region under Morocco, encountered disaster while navigating the Atlantic Ocean.

Rescue teams were dispatched, managing to save 45 individuals from the perilous journey.

This incident is a grim addition to the challenges faced by irregular migrants.

The Moroccan Interior Ministry disclosed on January 23 that in the year 2023 alone, 75,184 irregular migrants were intercepted, underscoring the magnitude of the migration crisis.

Every year, thousands embark on perilous voyages from Africa across the Mediterranean, driven by the hope of securing a better future in Europe. While some succeed in their quest, others meet tragic fates at sea.

Morocco’s geographical position, close to European shores, has made it a common transit route for irregular migrants. The continuous flow of migrants and the subsequent tragedies at sea highlight the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the desperate measures taken by individuals in search of safety and prosperity.

Source: Newsroom